Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Matthew 5:8 NIV
One of my favorite Christian artists is Ken Medema. He has been performing Christian music for nearly 50 years as a singer songwriter with his classical piano lead and operatic voice.
From wikipedia – Some of his best known songs began as live improvisations. In 1973, he began performing and recording his own songs while at Essex County Hospital. “I had a bunch of teenagers who were really hurting,” he says, “and I started writing songs about their lives. Then I thought, ‘Why don’t you start writing songs about your Christian life?’ So I started doing that, and people really responded.” His lyrics generally provide social commentary on themes such as justice, hunger, poverty, homelessness, and Christian charity as it pertains to them.
In 1984, I heard him live at Samford University as he lead us through an improve of the Bible story of the woman caught in adultery. He led us to feel all of her emotions of shame, guilt, and forgiveness. He paints pictures with his songs.
What is unique about his songs and the colorful phrases? He was born partially blind in which he only sees shadows and objects up close, yet he takes you to see the beauty of creation in song. Youtube song I see America through the eyes of love
The Bible clearly teaches that none of us are righteous…no not one. The devil adds to it by constantly accusing us of our failures and deceitful heart. So how does one obtain a pure heart? Is salvation the only criteria needed for us to have a pure heart?
Salvation definitely cures the sin by washing us clean, but I believe God had an additional thought in mind with this blessing of a pure heart.
When we love, care, share and talk in a manner consistent with God’s character, we begin to see the world through His eyes.
When we forgive when we really don’t want to, don’t feel like they deserve it, don’t feel like it is fair or justified, we are moving closer to the heart of Father God. We begin to feel a little of His heart when He forgives us.
When we pray blessings and help for others, we begin to feel the culture of heaven’s throne room where our prayers have gained an audience. Jesus’ intercession inspires us as He prays for His Father to forgive those who are ignorant to what they are doing.
When we share our food, clothing, money, or time, we align ourselves with Jesus emptying himself of heaven’s place of honor, to become a man.
None of these actions make you pure so that you have gained a privileged status to enter God’s presence. But living in the values of the kingdom keeps the channels open for intimate interaction with God. This intimacy helps you see God and His plans for the world of which He includes you to express love with Him.
On this Monday Mantra may you be blessed to align your actions with God’s character. May God draw close to you. May you see Him, hear Him and feel His heartbeat of love for you.
Blessings Love y’all